To blaze a trail in the internet age, it’s essential for illustrators to build and maintain a strong online presence. AOI portfolio consultant, Fig Taylor, has long been a contributor to publishing bible, The Writers’ And Artists’ Yearbook, advising newcomers on what to expect as a freelancer. However it wasn’t till her publisher, Laurence King, requested 2,500 words on social networking for the second edition of How To Create A Portfolio And Get Hired, that that she began to realise the full potential of online marketing for illustrators.

In the short space of time since being commissioned to write the first edition, new platforms for sharing images and ideas had mushroomed in the form of Tumblr, Pinterest, Instagram, and Twitter; personal illustration blogs were encroaching on spaces previously occupied and curated by prominent industry insiders, and Apple had introduced the iPad. But the internet is a big place and it can be easy to go unheard, so Bloomsbury were delighted when Fig pitched a new piece for the 2017 edition of the Yearbook in the form of Selling Yourself and Your Work Online.

The piece addresses everything from effective blogging to website building options to making the most of social networking media. It also boasts a ton of helpful resources. It’s out now so get in there! As Fig says, “This isn’t about giving Zoella a run for her money or taking snapshots of your artfully arranged elevenses. It’s about finding a viable way to give potential commissioners a more detailed understanding of your working practice than a bunch of samples and a brief bio, however pithy, can convey alone.”

Fig Taylor is available for Portfolio consultations with AOI members for just £25 per hour long session. To book a place or arrange a Skype session with Fig call AOI on 020 7759 1010.